Meeting with French Oceanographers

Stopping in St. Michael brought not only the opportunity to meet Michel but also meet French oceanographers and sailors, Thomas and Lou, who temporarily live and work in Canada. They helped us with French translation and docking during our arrival at the marina, and also provided valuable tools for splicing the ropes – thanks, guys! We talked about our project and I showed them our CTD measuring system. They expressed a significant interest in our project, we discussed the details of data collection, possible problems and their resolving solutions. I was surprised that they are familiar with Microsalinometer, which they used to operate onboard CCGS Amundsen. The guys built a wooden 26′ sailboat for themselves and they eventually sail out into the ocean, and I hope that our idea of collecting oceanographic data will open up new horizons for them.

Welcome aboard, Thomas and Lou!
Discussion in the main cabin
Have a great sailing on your lovely boat!

In the great company of Michel

Two days spent in the beautiful Saint Michel, in the company of the wonderful Michel, who showed us around and helped a lot with the purchase of groceries and parts for the boat. We had great conversations with Michel and “stop and smell the roses” during our stay. Thank you both, Michel and Saint Michel for your help and for having us!

Sign of Marina in Saint Michel
Docked on the marina
Visiting historic Michel’s house, restoration in progress!
Having lunch with a river view on the porch of Michael’s cottage.
A challenging trip down to the river from the cottage.
Low tide ponds in beautiful rocks
Walking on a low tide shore.
A juvenal bold eagle
Our photo on the shore of St.Lowrance River – we did it!

Meet Michel in Saint-Michel

Next destination was proposed by Frank to meet his old friend Michel. By some mysterious coincidence, the place called Saint-Michel. We reached area where tidal movements of water becomes significant and limited our access to marinas

Rainy morning
Ebb current buoy
Passing by Quebec City
Coast guard ship
Iconic Chateau Frontenac
Approaching Saint-Michel-de-Bellechasse
First cast in the river
Helping Frank to cast
Data plot of CTD cast near Saint-Michel